A cataract is a condition in which the lens of an eye becomes cloudy and affects vision. Most commonly, cataracts occur in older people, and they usually develop gradually.
Cataracts can usually be treated with a day-case operation, where the cloudy lens is removed and is replaced with an artificial plastic lens. However, in developing countries where this treatment is not available, cataracts are a major cause of total loss of vision (severe sight impairment).
Signs and symptoms:
Here are some vision changes you may notice if you have a cataract:
- Having blurry vision
- Seeing double (when you see two images instead of one)
- Being extra sensitive to light
- Having trouble seeing well at night, or needing more light when you read
- Seeing bright colors as faded or yellow instead
Risk factors
Factors that increase your risk of cataracts include:
- Increasing age
- Diabetes
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Previous eye injury or inflammation
- Previous eye surgery
- Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
When to see a doctor?
Make an appointment for an eye exam if you notice any changes in your vision. If you develop sudden vision changes, such as double vision or flashes of light, sudden eye pain, or sudden headache, see your doctor right away.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353790